Stress has significant effects on both mental and physical health. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in how stress influences the gut microbiome and the implications of this interaction for our digestive and immune systems. The gut microbiome is a critical factor in our overall health, and stress can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to various health issues. Therefore, understanding the neural connections between the brain and the gut, as well as the ways in which stress interferes with these pathways, is regarded as a crucial advancement in the field of health.
Ivan E. De Araujo and colleagues have conducted an in-depth investigation into how stress affects the gut microbiome and the brain-gut interactions. The study examines the role of Brunner’s glands, located in the duodenal submucosa, in regulating the secretion of mucin that supports the growth of Lactobacillus bacteria in the intestine, as well as the role of the vagus nerve in this process. This research provides important insights into how stress impacts neural pathways and disrupts gut health.
In experiments conducted on both mice and humans, the ablation of Brunner’s gland cells in mice was performed, and the effects of this intervention on Lactobacillus levels were observed. The study investigated how chronic stress affects the activity of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and its role in the reduction of Brunner’s glands and Lactobacillus levels. Additionally, the reversibility of stress effects was examined using chemogenetic stimulation of either the CeA or vagal parasympathetic neurons.
According to the findings, the mucin produced by Brunner’s glands supports the proliferation of Lactobacillus bacteria in the gut. The ablation of these glands resulted in a noticeable decrease in Lactobacillus numbers and impaired the intestinal barrier’s ability to defend against infections. Chronic stress inhibits activity in the CeA, leading to a decrease in both Brunner’s glands and Lactobacillus levels. Chemogenetic stimulation can reverse this condition, restoring the gut microbiome and immune system to normal.
In conclusion, this study presents significant findings on how stress affects the gut microbiome and the immune system. It aids in our understanding of the neural connections between the brain and gut and the impact of stress on gut health. These findings provide an important guide for developing new approaches to treating stress-related health issues. This research is considered a significant step in elucidating the biological effects of stress and in developing therapeutic strategies.
Translated by Sude Naz Aktaş
Editor: Elif Duymaz
Reference: Chang, H., Perkins, M.H., Novaes, L.S., Qian, F., Zhang, T., Neckel, P.H., Scherer, S., Ley, R.E., Han, W. and Ivan (2024). Stress-sensitive neural circuits change the gut microbiome via duodenal glands. Cell. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2024.07.019.
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